Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility solutions, has successfully delivered the first Metropolis metro train for Chennai Metro Phase II from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Sricity, Andhra Pradesh.
These fully Indian-made trains are engineered for a safe speed of 90 km/h and an operational speed of 80 km/h. The mock-up car was unveiled on September 22, 2024, during an event at Alstom’s Sricity site, attended by dignitaries from the Tamil Nadu government, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), and Alstom.
Olivier Loison, Managing Director of Alstom India, expressed his pride in this significant achievement, stating, “Chennai Metro has become a symbol of efficient and reliable transportation, transforming daily commutes for its residents. We are excited to contribute to this vision by delivering world-class, Made-in-India driverless metro trains that enhance the commuter experience while promoting sustainable mobility by reducing emissions and alleviating road congestion. As a trusted partner in advancing sustainable transportation, Alstom is dedicated to enhancing this partnership and reshaping Chennai’s mass transit system for a greener future.”
Production of these trains commenced in February 2024, with a total of 36 trains planned, each consisting of three cars. These trains will operate on a 26 km corridor of Phase II, connecting Poonamallee Bypass to Light House and including 28 stations, with 18 elevated and 10 underground.
Valued at 124 million euros, the project also involves training Chennai Metro personnel in operation and maintenance. The trains are equipped with Automatic Train Operation (ATO) and Automatic Train Protection (ATP) systems, allowing for driverless operation under Unattended Train Operations (UTO), representing grade of automation level 4 (GOA 4).
With a regenerative braking system for significant energy savings, these trains provide an efficient, eco-friendly, and comfortable commuting experience for Chennai’s passengers. In line with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, these Metropolis trains have been entirely designed in Bangalore and manufactured in Sricity.
Since receiving its first contract from CMRL in 2010, Alstom has delivered 208 metro cars for Phase I of the Chennai Metro and has designed, tested, and commissioned track work covering 45 kilometers across these corridors. The delivery of the first trainset for Phase II underscores Alstom’s commitment to transforming Chennai’s mobility landscape, paving the way for a more connected and sustainable future.
For over 60 years, Alstom’s modern metro trains have been meeting diverse customer needs worldwide. The Metropolis metro trains are designed to integrate with both new and existing infrastructure, adaptable to various capacity requirements.
Available in flexible configurations from 2 to 9 cars, they accommodate different gauge profiles, voltage systems, and interior designs, and can operate either manually or autonomously. Metropolis metros are designed for low noise levels, high recyclability, and optimized energy efficiency, minimizing their environmental footprint. Over 35,000 metro cars have been ordered or are currently in operation in more than 70 cities across 40 countries.
